Security Force Curtailing Aggressive Panhandling Downtown

Tools

It's a busy day on Main Street and downtown resident Brad Alsobrook approaches the officer charged with patrolling for aggressive panhandlers.

"I just want to thank you for what you're doing," Alsobrook says. "I've lived here on Main for 10-and-a-half years, and I'm so glad you guys are out here doing this. It's really making a big difference."

Officer Willie Askew nods graciously.

Askew has received positive feedback from tourists, businesses, and downtown workers since the start of the Center City Commission plan to halt aggressive panhandling. The $53,000 three-month pilot project, approved in February, began April 1st despite opposition from the homeless and their support organizations...